Personal defense device

ABSTRACT

Multiple embodiments of a personal defense device each include an electrical stun circuit and electrodes with a structure adapted for use as an impact weapon as well, and further include a radially disposed flashlight or signal light therewith. The electrical circuitry for the stun apparatus may be formed of flexible circuit material with dual circuit paths between each component, for reliability and resistance to damage due to impact forces incurred when the device is used as an impact weapon. A second, normally closed interrupter switch may be provided for the stun circuit, with the user of the present device being required to hold the interrupter switch in order to keep the stun circuitry from operating when the master switch is turned on. The end opposite the handle may include a series of impact ribs with cutting blades removably installable thereon, to produce non-lethal cuts in an assailant during an attack.

REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION

This application is a continuation in part of U.S. Utility patentapplication Ser. No. 10/084,972 filed on Mar. 1, 2002, titled “PersonalDefense Device.”

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to manual weapons such asbatons, night sticks, and the like, and in addition relates toelectrically powered stun devices. The present defense device combinesaspects of both of the above devices, as well as other features andfunctions, in a single device for use by police, military, and/or otherswho have need of such a non-lethal weapon or device for crowd controland other purposes. The embodiments of the present disclosureincorporate various features and elements not provided in the parentdocument relating to the present invention, e.g., multiple lenses ofvarious colors for the high intensity lighting element, various userreplaceable wear components, a removable impact pad for the distalportion of the device, remote high intensity electrical contacts, andother features.

2. Description of the Related Art

The use of blunt instruments (night sticks, etc.) by police and otherpersonnel for crowd control and for subduing other individuals, has beenknown for generations. Very little has been done over the years toimprove such hand held impact weapons, other than changing the mass ofdifferent portions to impart greater force upon impact. More recently,electronic devices have been developed which transform a relatively lowbattery voltage into a considerably higher voltage, for use as anelectrical stunning device. Such devices are quite effective in subduinga threatening, individual, or even a small crowd, as the audible andvisual impression generated by the electrical arc across the contacts,is quite intimidating.

However, such electrical stun devices are generally constructed withrelatively fragile electrical components which cannot withstand a greatdeal of impact force. Such stun devices of the prior art are notintended for any other use, and are used solely as an electricaldischarge device, with the contacts being placed against a potentialattacker or other person who must be subdued While this may result in athrusting of the device toward the other person, the physical forcesinvolved are nowhere near those to which a blunt impact weapon (nightstick or baton, etc.) would be subjected. The relative fragility of suchelectrical stun weapons has thus resulted in law enforcement officersbeing required to carry a separate baton or night stick in addition tothe electrical stun device, as well as all their other equipment (handgun, cuffs, etc.). The mass and bulk of all this equipment can bedistracting to say the least, and can certainly encumber an officer whenhe must move rapidly. Moreover, the requirement for two similarly shapedelongated weapons or devices (baton and electrical stun prod) can easilyresult in a moment's hesitation or confusion when the officer reachesfor one or the other, in a situation where time is critical.

Accordingly, a need will be seen for a personal defense device whichcombines attributes of the baton with those of an electrical stunningdevice, as well as other attributes and features, in a single device.The present defense device is constructed of a relatively massive andthick walled material, in order to provide the desired mass for use asan impact weapon. Yet, the device has a hollow interior, in order tohouse the electrical storage cells and electrical componentry for theelectrical stun system of the device. Moreover, the present deviceincludes a series of blunt edges disposed along the barrel thereof,which provide greater effectiveness as an impact weapon. These bluntedges may be equipped with relatively shallow cutting edges to produce ableeding cut or wound, if so desired. A high intensity flashlight or thelike may also be built into the device for greater versatility, with thelight utilizing the same electrical energy source as the stun circuitry.The present defense device may also make use of redundant flex circuitryand/or redundant componentry for reliability and impact damageresistance. In a first embodiment, a novel, normally on interrupterswitch for the stun circuit is provided to facilitate use of the deviceby an officer, with other embodiments incorporating more conventional,momentary contact actuation switches.

A discussion of the related art of which the present inventor is aware,and its differences and distinctions from the present invention, isprovided below.

U.S. Pat. No. 427,549 issued on May 13, 1890 to John M. Burton, titled“Electric Prod Pole,” describes two embodiments of such a device. Thefirst embodiment of FIG. 1 is a very low voltage device, as it reliesupon an “element B” (taken to be an electrical storage cell), but doesnot include any means of inverting the current for stepping up thevoltage. The second embodiment uses a mechanical generating device,rather than a battery. In any event, the device of the Burton '549 U.S.patent is quite long and thin, and is not adapted for use as an impactweapon in addition to its electrical prod function.

U.S. Pat. No. 1,158,473 issued on Nov. 2, 1915 to William B. Floyd,titled “Electric Animal Prod,” describes a device similar to that of theBurton '549 U.S. patent described immediately above. The Floyd prod isalso a relatively long and thin device, with electrical storagebatteries carried in a larger diameter handle portion. No appreciablemass is provided in the distal portion of the device, as it is desiredto make the distal portion as light as possible in such devices tofacilitate maneuverability. This teaches away from the presentinvention, with its relatively massive distal portion to providerelatively large inertial forces for use as an impact weapon, as well asproviding the desired strength and durability for the device.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,176,994 issued on Oct. 24, 1939 to Lorentz A. Hansen etal., titled; “Electric Stock Prod,” describes a device utilizing aconventional capacitor and vibrator points for producing an alternatingcurrent from the direct current of the electrical storage batterieswithin the device. A coil having primary and secondary windings is usedto step up the voltage to the desired level. This device is capable ofproducing a continuous array of high voltage discharges, unlike thedevices discussed further above. While the circuitry of the Hansen etal. device is old in the art, such circuitry or its equivalents may beused in the present invention, and the disclosure of such isincorporated herein by reference. However, Hansen et al. do not disclosea relatively massive barrel portion for use as an impact weapon, norother means (blades, etc.) for such impact function.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,208,852 issued on Jul. 23, 1940 to Leon P. Mongan,titled “Electric Prodder,” describes a combination device including avoltage step-up circuit and light circuit, each powered by the samebattery power source. The electrical voltage step-up circuitry isessentially the same as that used by Hansen et al. and disclosed in the'994 U.S. patent discussed immediately above. This basic circuitry maybe used with the present invention, as noted above. However, it isdesired to use more durable circuitry incorporating flex circuits,redundant wiring, solid state componentry, and/or redundant componentryin the present invention, rather than the older mechanical componentryof the Mongan and similar earlier devices. In any case, Mongan does notprovide any means for using his device as an impact weapon, and furtherteaches away from the first embodiment of the present stun device byproviding an open circuit until one of the contacts is pushed in. Thenormally closed high intensity electrical circuit of the firstembodiment of the present personal defense device invention, may bedesirable in certain circumstances where the user must manipulate thedevice as an impact weapon simultaneously with actuation of the highvoltage electrical discharge, in that the user need not position his orher hand specifically to hold the switch while also manipulating thedevice. The visual and audible effects of the electrical arcing areactuated under such circumstances to provide a deterrent effect,regardless of the position of the user's hand on the switch.

U.S. Pat. No. 2,561,122 issued on Jul. 17, 1951 to John Juergens, titled“Livestock Prod,” describes a device having a spring mounted distal endwith a selectively operable light source concentric with the annularelectrical contact probes. The light and electric contacts are operatedby a single, double throw switch. Thus, either the light or theelectrical contacts may be actuated, but not both simultaneously.Moreover, the resiliently mounted distal end teaches away from therigid, massive structure of the present personal defense deviceinvention, which may also be used as an impact weapon.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,362,711 issued on Jan. 9, 1968 to LaVerne M. Larsen etal., titled “Night Stick With Electric Shock Means,” describes a stickhaving external high voltage wiring, as well as the conventional highvoltage contacts extending from the distal end of the stick. The objectof the Larsen et al. stick is to prevent unauthorized persons fromgrasping the stick and pulling it from the grip of the officer or otherperson controlling the stick. Larsen et al. disclose a transistorizedcircuit for controlling electrical power in their night stick, but nomeans of providing alternating current to produce a continuing series ofdischarges, is disclosed. The Larsen et al. night stick requires thatthe actuating switch be closed each time a single electrical pulse isdesired, with the electrical energy dissipating as the switch remainsclosed and voltage stabilizes through the transformer coil.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,625,222 issued on Dec. 7, 1971 to Kunio Shimizu, titled“Baton-Type Arrest Device,” describes a device having a pair ofelectrically conductive needles selectively extendible from one endthereof. No electrical switch is provided, except by means of currentflow between the two contacts. Shimizu states that by penetrating theskin, the electrical current administered may be much less to gain thedesired affect than that achieved with skin contact electrodes.Accordingly, no voltage step up is provided by Shimizu. Also, whileShimizu provides an axially placed light in one end of his night stick,the light cannot be directed radially from the side of the device.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,819,108 issued on Jun. 25, 1974 to Richard J. Jordan,titled “Crowd Control Stick,” describes a device bearing someresemblance to the night stick of the Larsen et al. '711 U.S. patent,discussed further above. The Jordan stick also includes external highvoltage wiring to preclude an unauthorized person from grabbing thestick and taking it from the operator. However, the Jordan stickutilizes a capacitor discharge system for producing the higher voltagesdesired. In any event, the Jordan stick still differs from the presentdevice in that the power supply for the Jordan device must be providedas a separate unit and connected to the stick with a cable. Also, Jordandoes not provide any form of lighting means nor impact enhancing meanswith his stick.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,092,695 issued on May 30, 1978 to Gary A. Henderson etal., titled “Electrical Shocking Device,” describes a relatively smalland light weight device including transistorized circuitry for producinga high voltage, low amperage current capable of producing an electricshock to a person contacting the electrodes. The Henderson et al. deviceis only about ten inches long and less than an inch in diameter, andweighs less than five ounces (col. 3, lines 41-43). Such size and weightis not suitable for use as an impact weapon, night stick, or billy club,whereas the present device provides sufficient mass and size to beuseful as an impact weapon as well. Also, no lighting means is disclosedby Henderson et al., whereas the present device includes a radiallydisposed, selectively operable light therewith.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,424,932 issued on Jan. 10, 1984 to Gerald F. Allen,titled “Electric Shock Prod,” describes a device incorporatingconventional transistorized circuitry, which disclosure is incorporatedherein by reference as yet another means of providing the high voltageoutput required for the operation of the present invention. The Allenprod differs from others in that the extension is a relatively thin andflexible blade. This construction clearly teaches away from the aim ofthe present invention, i.e., to serve as a night stick or impact weaponas well as being useful as an electrical stun device. Allen does notdisclose any form of lighting for his prod device.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,479,171 issued on Oct. 23, 1984 to Gregg B. Mains,titled “Side Arm Baton And Flashlight,” describes a relatively long,cylindrical device having battery storage space therein, a light at oneend thereof, and a radially extended handle with a light switch at theend thereof. No means of producing or dispensing a high voltageelectrical current or shock is provided by Mains for his light and batoncombination.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,486,807 issued on Dec. 4, 1984 to Serge J. Yanez, titled“Non-Lethal Self Defense Device,” describes various embodiments of anelectrical stun apparatus, having different configurations. Yanezincludes a light with his electrical discharge apparatus, but the lightis not intended to provide any real degree of illumination for theperson using the device. Rather, the Yanez light pulses or flashes withthe voltage output, producing a series of flashes to temporarily blindan assailant. Accordingly, no separate switch is provided to operate thelight for the Yanez device; both the light and the electrical voltageoutput (and an audible alarm, when installed) are controlled by a singleswitch, unlike the present invention.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,667,431 issued on May 26, 1987 to Lyle J. Mendicino,titled “Shark Prod,” describes an electrical device which emits arelatively low voltage (around 500 volts) and high amperage (1-5 amps),in comparison with electrical stun devices and cattle prods. This isbecause the diver is also subject to the electrical current,particularly in the salty ocean environment of sharks. Accordingly,Mendicino teaches away from the use of a high voltage, low amperagecurrent as used by the present invention. Moreover, the only lightprovided by Mendicino is an annunciator light to indicate operation ofthe device, and actual actuation of the electrical circuitry isaccomplished by contact with the probes, rather than by means of anoperator controlled switch.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,719,534 issued on Jan. 12, 1988 to Gary S. Ward, titled“Electric Shock Safety Device,” describes a stun type device having atelescoping probe end, with the probe comprising a series of mutuallytelescoping elements. The Ward device is more intended for use byjoggers and bicyclists against threatening dogs and the like. Therelatively thin and extended telescoped probe cannot provide therequired strength for use as an impact weapon (night stick or the like),as provided by the present multipurpose device. Moreover, Ward does notprovide any form of lighting with his device.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,842,277 issued on Jun. 27, 1989 to Eugene F. LaCroix,titled “Multi-Purpose Baton,” describes a device somewhat resembling theflashlight and baton apparatus of the Mains '171 U.S. patent, with itslaterally disposed hand grip. However, LaCroix also provides a series oflongitudinally disposed electrical conductors along the length of thedevice, similarly to the configuration of the device of the Jordan '108U.S. patent discussed further above. LaCroix also provides a lighthaving sufficient intensity to temporarily blind a potential assailant,rather than to provide any useful illumination for the user of thedevice. At least one embodiment of the present personal defense devicemay incorporate such a high intensity light, with the light alsoproviding illumination as desired or required. Moreover, the presentinvention may incorporate one or more: lenses for changing the color ofthe light, which feature is not disclosed by LaCroix. The lateralextension of the LaCroix device does not facilitate its use as an impactweapon, as provided by the generally cylindrical configuration of thepresent device.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,467,247 issued on Nov. 14, 1995 to Richard N. de Anda etal., titled “Electronic Stunning Apparatus,” describes a device havingconcealed electrical contacts which are not exposed until the device ispressed against another body. The de Anda et al. device is relativelysmall, being about the size of a flashlight. It is thus not suitable foruse as an impact weapon, as provided by the present invention. The deAnda et al. device more closely resembles the relatively small devicedisclosed in the '695 U.S. patent to Henderson et al., than it does thepresent personal defense device. Moreover, de Anda et al. do notdisclose any form of lighting with their device, and the concealedelectrical contacts cannot provide a visible display of electricaldischarge to dissuade a potential attacker.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,654,867 issued on Aug. 5, 1997 to John H. Murray, titled“Immobilization Weapon,” describes a hand held device with a pair ofelongated flexible electrodes and a set of electrodes which can beballistically fired at another person in order to deliver an electricalshock remotely. While at least one embodiment of the present inventionmay incorporate remotely actuated electrical contacts, they are notballistically fired. Rather, they are placed upon the subject by theperson in control, with electrical cables or leads extending between thesubject and the present defense device to allow the controlling personto maintain a safe distance from the subject. The Murray device has asquare section, pistol grip configuration with a relatively short upperportion for firing the ballistically delivered electrodes. The twoelongated electrodes extending from the Murray device, extend from thetop of the device above the pistol grip portion. The physicalconfiguration of the Murray device does not enable it to be used as animpact weapon, e.g., night stick, etc., as can the present personaldefense device.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,962,806 issued on Oct. 5, 1999 to Peter G. Coakley etal., titled “Non-Lethal Projectile For Delivering An Electric Shock To ALiving Target,” describes a series of embodiments for ballisticallylaunching an independent device capable of delivering an electric shockto a living target. The shocking device of the Coakley et al. apparatusis not connected to the firing weapon in any way, as by wires, etc. asused in some projectile firing devices of the prior art. Thus, theelectrical device cannot be controlled once it leaves the weapon. Also,while Coakley et al. disclose baton and flashlight embodiments of theirprojectile and delivery device, they do not provide a device having allof the features of the present invention, e.g., ribs for greater impact,low blades which may be attached to the ribs for imparting minor cuts,or radially disposed lighting means.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,986,872 issued on Nov. 16, 1999 to Eugene M. Chaput,titled “Multi-Component Electric Stunning Umbrella,” describes a devicehaving electrical storage cell and electronic component means in thehandle, with electrical wiring extending up the relatively narrow shaftthereof to a distal tip having a pair of stunning electrodes therein. Amore or less conventional umbrella is extendible from the tip,permitting the device to be used as an umbrella as desired. A hardplastic cover may be installed over the folded umbrella, as desired.Chaput states that this hard plastic cover permits the device to be usedas a baton or impact weapon, but this would require that the plasticsleeve be installed over the folded umbrella whenever the potential needof an impact weapon was foreseen. Moreover, while Chaput providesadditional electrodes along the sides of the impact sleeve, he does notprovide any additional ribs or blades to increase the effectiveness ofthe device as an impact weapon, as provided by the present personaldefense device.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,022,120 issued on Feb. 8, 2000 to Hung-Yi Chang, titled“Lighting Device For A Stun Gun,” describes a separate flashlight typedevice with the light beam oriented axially relative to the remainder ofthe device, rather than radially, as in the lighting means of thepresent device. The Chang assembly cannot be used as an impact weapon,as it is relatively short and compact, with the operating switcheslocated at the approximate midpoints along the opposite sides thereof.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,091,597 issued on Jul. 18, 2000 to Ming-Chen Lin, titled“Structure Of An Electric Shock Device,” describes a device having aseries of selectively extendible telescoping sections. The sections eachhave electrodes extending along their opposite sides, but no tipelectrodes are provided. Also, while the Lin device includes aflashlight, the light is oriented parallel to the length of the device,rather than being radially disposed to the length of the device.Moreover, the hollow telescoping tubes of the Lin device do not appearto provide sufficient strength for use as an impact weapon (baton,etc.), and Lin makes no disclosure or claim of such function for hisdevice.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,256,916 issued on Jul. 10, 2001 to Thomas V. McNulty,titled “Stun Gun,” describes a device having a short, pistol gripconfiguration with a trapezoidal head extending therefrom. The twoelectrical contacts are on adjacent faces of the trapezoid, angularlyseparated from one another. McNulty states that this causes thetrapezoidal shape to compress the muscle tissue of the subject beforeboth contacts are in contact with the skin, thus providing a greaterelectric shock effect and muscle contraction. The McNulty device moreclosely resembles the device of the '867 U.S. patent to Murray,discussed further above, than it does the present invention. McNultyalso provides a ballistically fired device having electrical stunningcontacts with his device. However, The relatively short length of theMcNulty stun device is not suitable for use as an impact weapon orbaton, and no lighting means is provided by McNulty for his device.

U.S. Pat. No. D-255,139 issued on May 27, 1980 to James A. Smith, titled“Electric Baton For Law Enforcement Personnel,” illustrates a designcomprising a relatively short, generally cylindrical device. Anelectrical switch is apparently provided at about the midpoint of thedevice, which further precludes its use as an impact weapon or baton. Noadditional impact ribs, blades, or lighting means are apparent in theSmith design.

U.S. Pat. No. D-273,216 issued on Mar. 27, 1984 to Harold S. Sinrod,titled “Multi-Purpose Defense Baton,” illustrates various embodiments ofa design comprising a relatively narrow, elongated cylindrical shapewith a hand guard between a handle portion and longer distal portion. Noelectrical function of any sort is apparent in the Sinrod design.

U.S. Pat. No. D-289,313 issued on Apr. 14, 1987 to More Shy, titled“Hand-Held, Electric Prod,” illustrates a design having a generallycylindrical shape with a hand guard adjacent one end. No disclosure ismade of any function as an impact weapon, nor is any lighting meansshown for the design. The Shy design more closely resembles the designof the '216 U.S. Design patent to Sinrod, discussed above, than it doesthe present invention.

U.S. Pat. No. D-329,510 issued on Sep. 15, 1992 to Hsiung Lin, tiled“Hand-Held Electric Prod,” illustrates a design comprising a relativelyshort, generally cylindrical device having a hand guard between a handleportion and distal portion. The Lin device thus more closely resemblesthe device of the de Anda et al. '247 U.S. patent, discussed furtherabove, than it does the present personal defense device. While nostatement of such is made in the Lin Design patent, it appears that theelectrodes are disposed along the opposite sides of the distal endportion of the device, rather than from the end, as in the presentdevice.

U.S. Pat. No. D-351,640 issued on Oct. 18, 1994 to Richard N. de Anda etal., titled “Electronic Stunning Weapon,” illustrates a designapparently identical to the device of the '247 U.S. Utility patentissued to the same inventors and filed on even date, discussed furtherabove. The same points of difference raised in the discussion of the deAnda et al. '247 U.S. Utility patent, are seen to apply here as well.

Finally, British Patent Publication No. 2,196,728 published on May 5,1988 to Chun Chang Kuo, titled “Flash Light,” describes an apparatuswhich is actually a combination of several devices. The Kuo apparatusincludes an axial flashlight, as well as selectively extendibleelectrical probes for, the device to serve as a stun weapon if sodesired. Moreover, the Kuo apparatus includes an audible warning system,e.g., a buzzer or siren, and the flashlight may be used as a visualwarning device as well. However, Kuo makes no statement or claim thathis apparatus is suitable for use as an impact weapon (baton, etc.). Thelight is disposed in the distal end of the device, and it isquestionable whether the light, as well as other componentry, wouldstand up to the forces resulting from use of the device as an impactweapon.

None of the above inventions and patents, taken either singularly or incombination, is seen to describe the instant invention as claimed. Thusa personal defense device solving the aforementioned problems isdesired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A hand held personal defense device includes a number of differentfeatures to provide a versatile defense weapon for law enforcement andother personnel who have need of such a device. The present devicecomprises numerous embodiments of an elongate, generally cylindricaltube having electrical contacts extending from one end thereof andconventional electrical circuitry therein to step up electrical cellvoltage to a high level for use as a stunning weapon and deterrent.

The structure of the device is formed of a high strength syntheticcomposite or non-composite material for optimum durability, and includesa series of ribs or channels along the exterior surface for greatereffect as an impact weapon. One or more blades may be attached to theribs or within the channels in order to produce shallow cuts upon thebody of a person when struck by the present device. The present devicealso includes a small but powerful light source emitting its lightradially from the body of the device, for effectiveness when the deviceis raised for use as an impact weapon. The light source is sufficientlypowerful as to temporarily blind a person whose eyes have become darkadapted. The electrical circuitry of the present device is adapted toprovide great durability and resistance to damage under high impactforces, as will likely occur from time to time with the use of thedevice.

Accordingly, it is a principal object of the invention to provide apersonal defense device providing multiple functions of an electricalstun weapon, impact weapon or baton, and light source in a singledevice.

It is another object of the invention to provide such a defense devicecomprising a durable, high strength tubular shell having a series ofribs or channels extending therefrom to provide greater damage when thedevice is used as an impact weapon, and which may include a series ofblades removably secured to the ribs or within the channels to produceshallow cuts due to impact from the device.

It is a further object of the invention to provide redundant flexibleelectrical circuitry and redundant componentry within the device, forgreater durability and resistance to damage due to forces developed whenthe device is used as an impact weapon.

Still another object of the invention is to provide at least oneembodiment having an interrupter switch for the high voltage electricalstunning circuit, which interrupter switch is normally closed to requirethe user of the device to hold the switch in order to disable theelectrical stunning circuitry.

It is an object of the invention to provide improved elements andarrangements thereof for the purposes described which is inexpensive,dependable and fully effective in accomplishing its intended purposes.

These and other objects of the present invention will become readilyapparent upon further review of the following specification anddrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a personal defensedevice according to the present invention, illustrating its generalconfiguration and features.

FIG. 2 is a fragmented longitudinal view in section of the rearward orhandle portion of the personal defense device of FIG. 1, showing theflex circuitry and various internal details thereof.

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the forward portion of thepersonal defense device of FIGS. 1 and 2, showing the impact ribs andremovable attachment of blades and blade guards thereto.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating the dual path electricalcircuitry provided for reliability in the first embodiment personaldefense device of FIGS. 1 through 3.

FIG. 5 is a front and side perspective view of a second embodiment ofthe present personal defense device, illustrating its generalconfiguration and features.

FIG. 6 is a rear and side perspective view of the personal defensedevice embodiment of FIG. 5, showing a removable end cap and furtherfeatures.

FIG. 7 is an exploded side elevation view of the personal defense deviceof FIGS. 5 and 6, illustrating a series of removably attachablecomponents therefor.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the major electrical components of theelectric arc output system of the personal defense device of FIGS. 5through 7.

Similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistentlythroughout the attached drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention comprises a series of embodiments of a personaldefense device, combining features of an electrical stun weapon ordevice with an impact weapon (baton, night stick, or the like) and asmall, high intensity light. These features have not been combined intoa single device, prior to the development of the present invention. Inaddition, the present defense device incorporates extremely durable,redundant electrical circuitry and componentry, in order to provide thedesired reliability and durability for the electrical system whenemployed with an impact weapon.

FIGS. 1 through 4 of the drawings illustrate the general configuration,various details, and electrical system of a first embodiment of thepresent personal defense device. FIG. 1 provides a perspective view ofthe general configuration of the first embodiment personal defensedevice, indicated by the reference numeral 10 throughout the drawings.The personal defense device 10 generally comprises an elongated,generally cylindrical, hollow tube 12, having a handle end 14 and adistal electrical discharge end 16 opposite the handle end 14. The tube12 may be formed of a variety of materials, but as the present device 10is used as an impact weapon as well as an electrically dischargingstunning weapon, the material used is preferably a hard, rigid, somewhatdense material, capable of withstanding impact forces when used as apolice baton, club, or the like. Due to the high electrical voltagesdeveloped by the electrical circuitry of the present invention, thematerial preferably has a very high dielectric property, at leastgreater than that of air, in order to preclude electrical arcing acrossor through the material. A composite material formed by a thermosettingresin in a synthetic fiber matrix, e.g., Ultra*comp® UC-200, made byTri-Star Plastics Corp. of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts has been found tomeet these requirements. However, other suitable materials may besubstituted as desired.

The handle end 14 may be equipped with a removable cap 18 for accessingelectrical storage cells (batteries) and/or other internal componentry.A wrist strap 20 or the like may be secured to the device 10 by thehandle end cap 18, if so desired. The opposite electrical discharge oroutput end 16 may be equipped with, a similar cap 22, with theelectrical stunning electrodes 24 and 26 extending therefrom.Preferably, the caps 18 and 22 are provided with seals or other suitablemeans to provide a waterproof fit.

Two concentric sleeves 28 and 30 may be installed about the tube 12 inthe approximate medial area thereof, or more precisely, somewhat closerto the handle portion 14 of the assembly. These sleeves 28 and 30 securethe switches controlling the high voltage circuitry for the presentinvention, as shown pictorially in FIG. 2 and schematically in FIG. 4 ofthe drawings. A master switch 32 is provided to turn the high voltagestun circuitry on and off, with a second, momentary contact switch 34being provided to enable and disable the electrical stun circuitry asdesired.

The master switch 32 is preferably a rocker type switch, with oppositeends of the switch either actuating or deactivating the high voltagecircuit alternately as they are pushed. The secondary switch 34 ispreferably normally on or closed, and is wired in series with the masterswitch 32 and/or high voltage circuit. The operator of the presentpersonal defense device 10 normally actuates the electrical circuitry byturning the master switch 32 on when it appears that the need forelectrical stun capability may be needed. The operator then holds thesecondary switch 34 to keep it open, thus keeping the high voltagecircuitry in a deactivated condition. However, when the operatorreleases the secondary switch 34, the high voltage system is activated.The operator thus need not continually hold a switch in order to keepthe high voltage circuitry activated. These switches 32 and 34 aresecured within passages through the tube 12 wall by the sleeves 28 and30, and are preferably encased in rubber or the like to provide awaterproof assembly and preclude electrical arcing from the switches.

FIG. 2 provides a pictorial view of the voltage step-up and othercircuitry within the tube 12 of the device 10, while FIG. 4 provides aschematic view of the circuitry. The electrical circuitry used with thepresent invention is flexible (or “flex”) circuitry, insofar aspossible. Flex circuitry, rather than using conventional insulatedwires, utilizes thin, flexible plastic sheet material with conductivematerial imprinted or otherwise formed thereon, in a similar manner tothat used in the formation of conventional printed circuit boards andthe like. However, rather than using rigid board-like material, thecircuitry of the present invention utilizes a thin, flexible plasticcentral board or sheet 36 (shown with its lower left corner flexedupwardly, in FIG. 2) which contains most of the various electroniccomponents 38 which operate the high voltage system of the presentinvention. A series of flex circuit lines, described specificallyfurther below and in FIG. 4, extend from the, “mother board” 36 to thevarious electronic components of the present invention. Such flexcircuitry is conventional, and is used in the aviation and automotiveindustries to provide good reliability and durability in harshenvironments where electronics are exposed to vibration and otherforces.

The voltage step-up and lighting systems of the present invention arepowered by a pair of nine volt electrical cells (batteries) 40, wired inparallel, as shown in FIG. 4. The cells or batteries 40 are preferablywrapped in an insulating sleeve 42 of neoprene or other material, inorder to keep them warmer and provide more efficient operation in coldertemperatures.

The various electrical connectors extending between components arepreferably formed of thin, flat flex circuitry, as noted further above.In addition, all of the wiring or circuitry is redundant, with eachconnector element carrying two electrical paths, designated as paths aand b, in FIG. 4 of the drawings. For example, the lines 44 between thebatteries 40 and the main control circuit are indicated as circuits 44 aand 44 b in FIG. 4. The lines 46 extending from the control circuitboard or sheet 36 to the master and secondary switches 32 and 34 aredesignated as separate, parallel circuits 46 a and 46 b in FIG. 4. (Itwill be noted that the pictorial view of FIG. 2 illustrates these lines46 as returning separately to the control sheet 36, while they are wiredin series between the batteries 40 and the control board or sheet 36. Anumber of different circuit routings are possible, but the principleremains the same.) The electrical conductors 48 and 50 extending betweenthe control board 36 and the respective electrodes 24 and 26 (with acapacitor 52 illustrated in the circuit therewith in FIG. 4), areindicated as conductors 48 a, 48 b, 50 a, and 50 b in FIG. 4. Finally,the lighting circuit 54 is indicated by conductor paths 54 a and 54 b inFIG. 4. The provision of parallel, dual circuit paths for the electricalcircuitry of the present invention provides a significant improvement inreliability and durability over conventional single wire circuit runsused in other electrical stun devices of the prior art, and enables thepresent invention to be used as an impact weapon without damage to theelectrical and electronic elements thereof.

A number of different electrical or electronic circuits may be used toprovide the voltage step-up required to provide the desired high voltageto the two electrodes 24 and 26 from the two nine volt batteries 40.Older technology may make use of vibrator points to develop thealternating (actually pulsating dc) current required to drive thetransformers to step up the voltage to the level desired. The presentinvention may make use of such mechanical point systems, but preferablyutilizes conventional solid state oscillator circuitry to produce thevariable voltage required to drive a step-up transformer to arrive atthe proper voltage. Any such systems are conventional, and may beincorporated herein.

In addition to the above circuitry for providing the required highvoltage to the electrodes 24 and 26, the present personal defense device10 may also include a light source (e.g., small flashlight or signallight, etc.) if so desired. FIGS. 2 and 4 also illustrate such alighting system incorporated with the present invention. A small, brightlight source 56 is located in a housing within the tube 12, and iscontrolled by a switch 58. The switch 58 may be a single pole type, asshown schematically in FIG. 4 of the drawings. However, all of theswitches 32, 34, and 58 may also be conventional double pole types forgreater redundancy and reliability, if so desired. A fiberoptic(acrylic) rod or bundle 60 extends from the light source 56 to an output62 which projects radially from the tube 12. Different lenses 64 (e.g.,infrared, ultraviolet, etc.) may be installed between the light source56 and fiberoptic line 60, as desired.

The present personal defense device 10 is a multi-purpose tool, and isuseful as an impact weapon (baton, club, etc.) as well as an electricalstunning device and light, as noted further above. FIGS. 1 and 3(particularly FIG. 3) illustrate the external configuration of thepresent device 10 for use as an impact weapon. At least one (andpreferably a series of) hard, rigid, elongate impact rib(s) 66project(s) radially from the exterior of the tube 12 and extend(s)therealong, from a point near the electrode or electrical discharge endcap 22, back toward the handle portion 14 of the tube 12, stopping shortof the two switch securing sleeves 28 and 30. The ribs 66 are preferablyformed of the same material, e.g., Ultra*comp UC-200, as the remainderof the exterior of the device 10, but other materials may be substitutedas desired, so long as they are electrically non-conductive and providethe other desired properties of hardness, strength, durability, etc. Theribs 66 may be disposed along only one side of the impact end 16 of thetube 12, in order to allow the operator to use the opposite smooth,non-ribbed side or surface if less force is required.

FIG. 3 illustrates a further embodiment of the invention, in which theribs 66 are provided with a series of mounting holes 68 for theremovable attachment of a shallow, radially disposed cutting blade 70 toeach rib 66. The blades 70 are equipped with a like series of attachmentholes 72, through which a series of bolts 74 or the like may beinstalled. The bolts may be retained by threading the rib holes 68,inserts within the rib holes 68, conventional nuts 76 on the oppositesides of the blades, etc.

The blades 70 are preferably formed of corrosion resistant steel, fortoughness, durability, and ease of maintenance. Other materials may beused as desired. Each blade 70 has a relatively shallow, widely angled,but sharp, cutting edge therealong. The object of the blades 70 is notto inflict serious arterial bleeding through a deep cut, but rather tobreak the skin of an assailant to produce some bleeding as a secondaryeffect while primarily inflicting a certain amount of pain, in order todistract and slow an assailant. Blade guards 78 formed of heat shrinktape or other suitable material, may be applied to the blades 70 inorder to protect persons handling the present device 10. Such relativelythin plastic tape 78 may be left in place at all times, including duringuse of the present device 10, as the tape is easily cut through by theblades 70 upon impact.

FIGS. 5 through 8 of the drawings illustrate a second embodiment of thepresent personal defense device, and a series of attachments andaccessories therefor. FIG. 5 provides a perspective view of the generalconfiguration of the second embodiment personal defense device,indicated by the reference numeral 100 throughout the drawings. Thepersonal defense device 100 generally comprises an elongated, generallycylindrical, hollow tube 102, having a handle end 104, a distalelectrical discharge end 106 opposite the handle end 104, and agenerally circumferential wall 107. The tube 102 may be formed of avariety of materials, but as the present device 100 is used as an impactweapon as well as an electrically discharging stunning weapon, thematerial used is preferably a hard, rigid, somewhat dense material,capable of withstanding impact forces when used as a police baton, club,or the like. Due to the high electrical voltages developed by theelectrical circuitry of the present invention, the material preferablyhas a very high dielectric property, at least greater than that of air,in order to preclude electrical arcing across or through the material. Acomposite material formed by a thermosetting resin in a synthetic fibermatrix, e.g., Ultra*comp® UC-200, made by Tri-Star Plastics Corp. ofShrewsbury, Mass. has been found to meet these requirements. However,other suitable materials may be substituted as desired.

The handle end 104 may be equipped with a removable (e.g.,conventionally threaded) cap 108 for accessing electrical storage cells(batteries) and/or other internal componentry. A lanyard 110 or the likemay be secured to the device 100 through a retaining slot 111 in thehandle end cap 108, if so desired, generally as shown in FIG. 7 of thedrawings. A separate removable cover or guard 112 may be provided tocover the two electrical stunning electrodes 114 and 116 which extendfrom the discharge end 106 of the device 100. Preferably, at least thecap 108 is provided with seals or other suitable means to provide awaterproof fit. The cover or guard 112 is preferably configured to havea frictional fit over both the electrical discharge end 106 and thehandle end cap 108 so it may be stored over the handle end cap 108 whenthe lanyard 110 is not installed, generally as shown in FIG. 6 of thedrawings.

A slightly larger diameter switch housing portion 118 is providedbetween the handgrip and battery housing portion 120 and the impactportion 122 of the device 100. The switch housing 118 is formedintegrally with the majority of the tube structure 102, and contains alight switch 124 for activating a high intensity light 126 whichprojects radially from the side wall of the tube 102, specifically fromthe switch housing 118 adjacent the light switch 124. The light switch124 is preferably a normally off, momentary contact switch, with aresilient, waterproof protective cover thereover. The light 126preferably comprises a high intensity or “super bright” white lightemitting diode, in order to provide the desired durability andreliability for the present device 100. However, alternative lightingprinciples may be used, if so desired. Whichever type of lighting isused, it is important that the light 126 be of sufficient intensity asto momentarily incapacitate the vision of a person at whom the light isaimed, particularly in a darker environment where the person's eyes havebecome dark adapted to at least some extent.

The area of the tube 102 in which the light 126 is installed, includes arotating cylindrical collar or bezel 128 installed thereon. (The collar128 is illustrated in place on the device 100 in FIG. 5, but is removedin FIGS. 6 and 7 for clarity in the drawings.) The collar 128 includes aplurality of differently colored lenses 130 in a circumferential array,along with an open port or passage 132. The collar 128 is preferablyformed of a somewhat flexible material, and may include one or moreinward projections or the like (not shown) which engage correspondingslots 134 (shown in FIGS. 6 and 7) in the tubular housing 102. Flexingthe collar 128 releases the projections from the slots to allow thecollar 128 to be rotated to position any one of the lenses 130 or theopening 132 over the light 126, as desired.

The opposite side of the tubular housing 102 contains another pushbuttonswitch 136 (shown in FIGS. 6 and 7), which activates the electricaldischarge when pushed and held. The electronic componentry for creatingthe high voltage discharge across the points 114 and 116 is containedwithin the hollow tubular structure 102, and is shown generally in theschematic drawing of FIG. 8. Most of the internal electrical componentsof the present invention are quite robust and have very long lives.However, it is anticipated that at least one component (in addition tothe batteries, which are accessible via the end cap 108) may requirereplacement after some relatively long period of time. The presentdefense device utilizes a spark gap device 138 to intensify the sparkemission, shown in FIG. 7 of the drawings. While the specific spark gapdevice 138 utilized in the development of the present invention hasproven to have an extremely long life span, it still may needreplacement from time to time. The present personal defense deviceprovides for this by means of a removable spark gap cap or cover 140,which is normally secured in place over the spark gap access port 142.The spark gap 138 and its access port 142 and cover or cap 140 arenormally located beneath the rotatable collar 128, but rotation of thecollar 128 to align the open port 132 with the spark gap cap 140provides access to the cap 140 and the underlying spark gap device 138.A spare spark gap device 138 a may be stored within the end cover orguard 112, as shown in FIG. 6 of the drawings.

A number of different electrical or electronic circuits may be used toprovide the voltage step-up required to provide the desired high voltageto the two electrodes 114 and 116 from the batteries contained withinthe tube 102. Older technology may make use of vibrator points todevelop the alternating (actually pulsating dc) current required todrive the transformers to step up the voltage to the level desired. Thepresent invention may make use of such mechanical point systems, butpreferably utilizes conventional solid state oscillator circuitry toproduce the variable voltage required to drive a step-up transformer toarrive at the proper voltage. Any such systems are conventional, and maybe incorporated herein.

FIG. 8 provides a schematic diagram of an exemplary electrical systemwhich may be used to power the electrical discharge system of thepresent invention. A pulse width modulator integrated circuit (PWM IC)142 receives electrical power from one or more conventional electricalstorage batteries when the electrical discharge power switch 136 (FIGS.6 and 7) is pushed on. Pulsed electrical power is transmitted to a pairof field effect transistors (FET) 144 a and 144 b, wired in parallel.This provides redundancy and reliability for the system, and reduces thedemands upon each transistor 144 a or 144 b when both are operatingnormally. Electrical current is then passed to a pair of storagecapacitors 146 a and 146 b, again wired in parallel in the system. Thecapacitors 146 a and 146 b discharge their stored energy to thereplaceable spark gap device 138, which discharges the electrical energyto an output transformer 148. At least one bank of capacitors 150(multiple banks may be provided in parallel, if so desired) receives theenergy from the transformer 148 and passes that high voltage electricalenergy to the external discharge points 114 and 116, where thealternating difference in potential produces a spark between the twoelectrodes 114 and 116.

The present personal defense device 100 is a multi-purpose tool, and isuseful as an impact weapon (baton, club, etc.) as well as an electricalstunning device and light, as noted further above. FIGS. 5 through 7illustrate the external configuration of the present device 100 for useas an impact weapon. At least one (and preferably a series of) bladeinstallation channels 152 are formed in the wall 107 of the tube 102,and extend from a point adjacent the electrical discharge end 106 of thedevice toward the opposite handle end 108, terminating near the light126 and its lens collar 128. The channels 152 include a series offastener holes 154, having hard threaded inserts therein for removablyand repeatedly accepting a series of screws 156 (shown in FIG. 7) or thelike. A corresponding number of shallow metal blades 158 are provided,with the blades having a relatively blunt side which fits closely withinthe channels 152. The blades 158 each have an opposite sharpened edge160 and a series of fastener holes 162 therethrough, with the bladefastener holes 162 aligning with the channel holes 154 for securing theblades 158 removably to the tube 102.

The blades 158 are preferably formed of corrosion resistant steel, fortoughness, durability, and ease of maintenance. Other materials may beused as desired. The cutting edge 160 of each blade 158 is relativelyshallow and widely angled, but sharp. The object of the blades 158 isnot to inflict serious arterial bleeding through a deep cut, but ratherto break the skin of an assailant to produce some bleeding as asecondary effect while primarily inflicting a certain amount of pain, inorder to distract and slow an assailant. Blade guards may be provided,as in the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 also illustrates other accessories or components which may beprovided with the present personal defense device 100. For example, aconventional belt clip 164 may be provided, with conventional belt loops166 for passing a belt therethrough to secure the clip 164 to theperson. The opposite side of the clip 164 has a conventional “keyhole”type retainer therein, for removably securing a stud or button 168thereto. The belt clip mounting stud 168 is immovably affixed to the,side of the tube 102, and extends generally radially therefrom.

Another accessory which may be provided for the present personal defensedevice, is a guard or sleeve 170 which may be removably secured over theimpact portion containing the blade channels 152. The protective sleeve170 serves to soften the impact of the device, and may be applied to thedevice for training exercises or other purposes as desired. The edges ofthe sleeve 170 secure together conventionally, e.g. using Velcro® orother suitable means as desired.

At times it may be desirable for the person using the present personaldefense device 100, to maintain some distance between himself or herselfand the subject person being handled. An example of such a situation isthe prison environment, where it is not desirable to approach someprisoners too closely. Rather than providing the potential opportunityfor a prisoner to gain control of the present device, an accessory maybe provided which permits the remote application of an electrical shockto the subject if necessary. FIG. 7 illustrates this accessory,comprising an extension cap 172 which removably secures to theelectrical discharge end 106 and electrodes 114 and 116 of the device100. The cap 172 includes a pair of conventional electrical contactstherein (not shown), which communicate electrically with the respectiveelectrodes 114 and 116. The electrical contacts pass electrical currentfrom the two electrodes 114 and 116, to a pair of high voltage leads 174and 176. These leads 174 and 176 may be formed to have any practicablelength, but are preferably from a few to several feet long. The leads174 and 176 must be constructed to handle relatively high voltages, onthe order of fifty thousand volts. Conventional automotive ignitionwiring is capable of such performance, and such wiring, or similarwiring, may be used for the leads 174 and 176 for the present invention.Such wiring is relatively stiff, but may be formed in a natural coil forstorage and extended as necessary for use.

The two leads 174 and 176 terminate in a body attachment strap 178,which attaches around the wrist or other portion of the body of thesubject to be controlled. Conventional Velcro® or other closure meansmay be used to secure the strap 178 to the person. The strap 178contains a pair of electrical contacts, respectively 180 and 182, whichcommunicate electrically with the respective electrodes 114 and 116 bymeans of the two extension leads 174 and 176. Using this extensionaccessory, a controlling person may administer a high voltage shock tothe subject from some distance away in the event the subject becomesunruly, without endangering himself or herself by closely approachingthe subject.

In conclusion, the present personal defense device in its variousembodiments provides a significant advance in personal defensetechnology for law enforcement officers and others who have need toconfront aggressive persons with physical force. The present devicecombines features of an electrical stun device, an impact device (baton,etc.), an edged weapon by means of its optional shallow blades, and alight source for illumination, signaling, or momentarily visuallyincapacitating a person, in a single device. This greatly simplifies thecarriage of equipment by law enforcement personnel, eliminating the needfor a separate electrical stunning device along with a flashlight andbaton.

Having a single, versatile tool or piece of equipment to handle all ofthe above functions, greatly facilitates the reactions of the officer ina hazardous situation, as he or she need not make a decision as to whichtool or equipment to access, and then reach for that specific item ofequipment. The present defense device provides all the equipment a lawenforcement officer is likely to require, except a firearm, in a singledevice.

The use of dual, redundant, flex electrical circuitry in at least oneembodiment of the present device provides a significant improvement inreliability for such devices, and enables the present defense device tobe utilized as an impact or edged weapon where it is subject toconsiderable shock forces, without risk of damage to internalcomponents. Preferably, mechanical connectors are used to secureelectrical components to one another, in order to avoid potentialproblems with solder joints and the like becoming brittle and separatingdue to flexing. The present personal defense device thus provides all ofthe deterrent means which would normally be desired by a law enforcementofficer in hand to hand situations in a single device, which will findgreat favor among law enforcement officers and others who have need ofsuch versatility in a single device.

It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to theembodiments described above, but encompasses any and all embodimentswithin the scope of the following claims.

1. A personal defense device, comprising: an elongated, electricallynon-conducting, hard, rigid, generally cylindrical, hollow tube with ahandle end, an electrical discharge end opposite said handle end, and acircumferential wall; first and second electrodes extending from saidelectrical discharge end of said tube; electrical circuitry disposedwithin said tube, for increasing voltage to a high level for selectivelyproducing an electrical discharge of stunning intensity from saidelectrodes; and said wall of said tube further including at least oneblade installation channel formed therein, extending from a pointadjacent said electrical discharge end of said tube toward said handleend of said tube.
 2. The personal defense device according to claim 1,further including a shallow metal blade removably attached to said tubewithin said at least one blade installation channel and projectingradially therefrom.
 3. The personal defense device according to claim 1,further including a high intensity light disposed in said tube andselectively projecting light radially therefrom; and said high intensitylight producing sufficient illumination to temporarily visually disablea person at whom said high intensity light is directed and activated. 4.The personal defense device according to claim 3, further including: aselectively rotating collar disposed circumferentially about said tubeand over said high intensity light; said collar further including aplurality of colored lenses and one open passage circumferentiallydisposed therein, whereby said collar is selectively rotated to positionone of said colored lenses or said open passage over said high intensitylight for selectively filtering illumination from said high intensitylight as desired.
 5. The personal defense device according to claim 1,further including at least one user replaceable electronic componentdisposed within said tube.
 6. The personal defense device according toclaim 5, further including: an access cover disposed over said at leastone user replaceable electronic component; a selectively rotating collardisposed circumferentially about said tube and over said access cover;said collar further including at least one open passagecircumferentially disposed therein, whereby said collar is selectivelyrotated to position said at least one open passage over said accesscover for accessing said access cover for removal thereof to access saidat least one user replaceable electronic component.
 7. The personaldefense device according to claim 1, further including: an extension capremovably disposed upon said electrical discharge end of said tube; abody attachment strap; a first and a second electrical contact disposedwithin said strap; a first and a second electrical lead extendingbetween said extension cap and said body attachment strap, connectingsaid extension cap and said strap together; and said first and secondelectrodes of said electrical discharge end of said tube communicatingelectrically respectively with said first and said second electricalcontact of said strap, by means of: said first and said secondelectrical lead.
 8. A personal defense device, comprising: an elongated,electrically non-conducting, hard, rigid, generally cylindrical, hollowtube with a handle end, an electrical discharge end opposite said handleend, and a circumferential wall; first and second electrodes extendingfrom said electrical discharge end of said tube; electrical circuitrydisposed within said tube, for increasing voltage to a high level forselectively producing an electrical discharge of stunning intensity fromsaid electrodes; a high intensity light disposed in said tube andselectively projecting light radially therefrom; said high intensitylight producing sufficient illumination to temporarily visually disablea person at whom said high intensity light is directed and activated; aselectively rotating collar disposed circumferentially about said tubeand over said high intensity light; and said collar further including aplurality of colored lenses and one open passage circumferentiallydisposed therein, whereby said collar is selectively rotated to positionone of said colored lenses or said open passage over said high intensitylight for selectively filtering illumination from said high intensitylight as desired.
 9. The personal defense device according to claim 8,wherein said wall of said tube further includes at least one bladeinstallation channel formed therein, extending from a point adjacentsaid electrical discharge end of said tube toward said handle end ofsaid tube.
 10. The personal defense device according to claim 9, furtherincluding a shallow metal blade removably attached to said tube withinsaid at least one blade installation channel and projecting radiallytherefrom.
 11. The personal defense device according to claim 8, furtherincluding at least one user replaceable electronic component disposedwithin said tube.
 12. The personal defense device according to claim 11,further including: an access cover disposed over said at least one userreplaceable electronic component, with said collar being selectivelyrotated to position said at least one open passage over said accesscover for accessing said access cover for removal thereof to access saidat least one user replaceable electronic component.
 13. The personaldefense device according to claim 8, further including: an extension capremovably disposed upon said electrical discharge end of said tube; abody attachment strap; a first and a second electrical contact disposedwithin said strap; a first and a second electrical lead extendingbetween said extension cap and said body attachment strap, connectingsaid extension cap and said strap together; and said first and secondelectrodes of said electrical discharge end of said tube communicatingelectrically respectively with said first and said second electricalcontact of said strap, by means of said first and said second electricallead.
 14. A personal defense device, comprising: an elongated,electrically non-conducting, hard, rigid, generally cylindrical, hollowtube with a handle end, an electrical discharge end opposite said handleend, and a circumferential wall; first and second electrodes extendingfrom said electrical discharge end of said tube; electrical circuitrydisposed within said tube, for increasing voltage to a high level forselectively producing an electrical discharge of stunning intensity fromsaid electrodes; and at least one user replaceable electronic componentdisposed within said tube; an access cover disposed over said at leastone user replaceable electronic component; a selectively rotating collardisposed circumferentially about said tube and over said access cover;said collar further including at least one open passagecircumferentially disposed therein, whereby said collar is selectivelyrotated to position said at least one open passage over said accesscover for accessing said access cover for removal thereof to access saidat least one user replaceable electronic component.
 15. The personaldefense device according to claim 14, wherein said wall of said tubefurther includes at least one blade installation channel formed therein,extending from a point adjacent said electrical discharge end of saidtube toward said handle end of said tube.
 16. The personal defensedevice according to claim 14, further including a shallow metal bladeremovably attached to said tube within said at least one bladeinstallation channel and projecting radially therefrom.
 17. The personaldefense device according to claim 14, further including a high intensitylight disposed in said tube and selectively projecting light radiallytherefrom; and said high intensity light producing sufficientillumination to temporarily visually disable a person at whom said highintensity light is directed and activated.
 18. The personal defensedevice according to claim 17, wherein: said collar is disposed over saidhigh intensity light; and said collar further includes a plurality ofcolored lenses circumferentially disposed therein, whereby said collaris selectively rotated to position one of said colored lenses or saidopen passage over said high intensity light for selectively filteringillumination from said high intensity light as desired.
 19. The personaldefense device according to claim 14, further including: an extensioncap removably disposed upon said electrical discharge end of said tube;a body attachment strap; a first and a second electrical contactdisposed within said strap; a first and a second electrical leadextending between said extension cap and said body attachment strap,connecting said extension cap and said strap together; and said firstand second electrodes of said electrical discharge end of said tubecommunicating electrically respectively with said first and said secondelectrical contact of said strap, by means of said first and said secondelectrical lead.